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10 Simple Tips For Healthier Skin

Colette Le

Our skin is our body's first line of defense. As a result, it gets exposed to

harsh external elements including environmental toxins, UV radiation, harsh

temperatures, toxins and harsh chemicals from skin care products, etc.

Besides external elements, internal elements such as poor diet and

deteriorating health conditions as well as high-stress levels, negatively

impact on our skin. As we age, our skin gives in, and the damage caused by

the elements attacking it begins to show. That's why you find wrinkles, acne,

rashes, laugh lines, and uneven skin tone beginning to appear.

However, the good news is that we can still take matters into our hands and

keep our skin strong despite the inner and outer threats. Regular skin care

routine will go a long way in helping one maintain a healthier, glowing skin.

Before we start discussing some of the skin care tips to integrate into your

routine, let's explore some of the most common skin conditions and how

you can overcome them.

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1. Laugh Lines, Fine Lines, and Wrinkles

With age, our skin becomes thinner and more fragile. It also becomes susceptible

to environmental elements and dehydration, which results in frown lines, laugh

lines, and fine lines.

To deal with these conditions, steer away from things that inhibit the damage

and cleansing of free radicals from the body as well as those elements that

promote the production of collagen. This will help decrease the depth of wrinkles

and fine lines. You can also use sunscreens and potent antioxidant to keep the

damaging effects of UV rays at bay.

2. Acne

Acne affects over 50 million Americans annually according to the American

Academy of Dermatology. This condition is caused by dead skin cells, sebum,

and bacteria getting trapped inside a clogged pore in the skin.

To overcome acne or control its symptoms, tone and cleanse your face

thoroughly every morning and evening. You can also look for a facial cleanser

that has salicylic acid as one of the ingredients. There are also skin care products

made specifically for acne.

3. Rosacea

This condition is characterized by persisted redness, skin breakouts, and dilated

capillaries. In severe cases, it can cause the nose to be more bulbous, oily, and

enlarged.

To date, there is no cure for rosacea, but you can control the symptoms with skin

care products meant to soothe delicate skin. It is good to know your triggers as

rosacea symptoms can get worse due to sun exposure, cold weather, wind, spicy

foods, and alcohol.




Other common skin conditions include;

Dark spots which is caused by too much melanin production. This can be

controlled by the use of topical treatments with ingredients such as kojic acid

and arbutin. Also, wearing sunscreen every day will help.

Eczema. This is a rash-like skin condition that is more common in children. To

deal with it, avoid skin care products with harsh chemicals and keep your skin

moisturized.

You can prevent and control the above and many other common skin conditions

by taking care of your skin; both externally and internally.

We have prepared an exhaustive guide on how to take good care of your skin to

ensure it remains healthy.




Your mission to getting a healthy, glowing skin begins with having a solid

skincare routine. Just like building a house, you need to establish a proper

foundation. Failure to do this, you are setting up yourself for disappointments.

Therefore, for a skincare routine to work and yield fruits, you will need to;

Ÿ Identify your skin type. There are four different types of skins; dry, oily,

normal, and a combination. By knowing your skin type, you will be able to set

up a routine that suits your skin's needs. With oily skin, you can expect to have

acne while with dry skin, you will be prone to cracking, sensitive skin, and flaky

patches. For normal skin, it is relatively clear, and you will get occasional

pimples. Combination skin is characterized by elements of both oily and dry

skin. Knowing your skin type will help to prevent you from using wrong skin

care products.

Ÿ Gradually add new products into your routine. When coming up with a

skincare routine, you will likely need to experiment with different products

before discovering the ones your skin doesn't react negatively to. Therefore,

gradually introduce new products into your routine; one at a time. The reasons

for this is that in case your skin gets irritated, you will know which one

backfired. You can also patch test, whereby you apply the product to a hidden

area of your skin to see if you will have any allergic reactions.

Have a Skin Care Routine




Ÿ Understand your brand. Skincare industry is diverse and has a lot of

products. Every brand promotes their products as the best. Most are

ineffective while others are unhealthy and loaded with harsh chemicals.

Therefore, you need to buy skincare products from a reputable brand

and source. Also, keep in mind that there is no significant difference

between men and women skincare products. As long as a product has a

PH of 6, both genders can use them. The most important thing is to read

the list of ingredients on a product. Don’t be fooled by terms such as

“natural” and “organic.” Learning the different skincare ingredients and

what they do is a process, but it will help save you from headaches of

testing many products on your skin.

Beautiful and glowing skin starts with a proper skincare routine. Therefore,

having a skin care regiment that is right for your skin type is important

because not all products and routines are perfect for all skin types.




After a long, busy day, nothing feels refreshing and relaxing as good as giving

your face a thorough cleaning with warm water. Removing traces of sweat, dirt,

and makeup opens up your skin pores thereby allowing your skin to breathe and

repair itself. Having a clean skin also helps your skincare products to perform their

tasks as required because they are able to penetrate deep into the skin.

Being the first part of your skin care routine, it is important that you learn the

proper way to do it before applying anti-aging creams and serums.

So, here is the proper way to cleanse your face.

There is a difference between washing your face and removing makeup. The first

step to a skincare ritual is to remove your makeup. This is where you use

cleansing oil. After that, you wash your face with plenty of warm water to remove

all the makeup you loosened in the first step, excess sebum, and dirt. This leaves

your skin pores open and in good shape to absorb your skin care products.

When washing your face, use a face cleanser and emulsify with lukewarm water.

Massage it into your skin in circular motion for 45-60 seconds. Make sure to

cover almost everywhere including the area along the hairline and blow the years.

Also, wash your neck and below your ears.

Face Cleansing




After that, rinse your face with warm water and gently pat with a clean, dry towel.

And talking about cleansers, there are many cleansing options in the market, with

each having its different benefits and suitability. At times, it can be overwhelming

to choose the right one as each claim to be the best. Knowing their qualities and

benefits will allow you to choose one that perfectly suits your skin.

Quick note; for people with normal skin type, you can try virtually any type of

cleanser.

Types of Cleansers

10 Simple Tips For Healthier Skin | 8

Cream cleansers

These are usually creamy and thick. They contain moisturizing ingredients

such as botanical oils that are known to cleanse the skin without removing its

natural oils gently. You can also find them in lotion and milk form.

Cream cleansers are ideal for people with sensitive and dry skin.

Foam cleansers

These are lightweight cleansers. They come out as a gel or cream but once

lathered, they form a foam, rich solution that removes excess oil from your

skin.

Foam cleanser is ideal for people with oily and combination skin.

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Gel cleansers

As the name suggests, they have a gel-like feel and are clear. Designed for

deep cleansing, this cleanser is great at removing excess oil and trapped in

bacteria from clogged skin pores. Thus, it can be used by people who suffer

from acne, thanks to its exfoliating and antiseptic properties.

Gel cleanser is ideal for people with oily and combination skin.

Oil cleansers

For most people, especially those with oily skin, washing their face with oil

may sound scary. However, most experts recommend oil cleansers as they

offer a gentle way of decongesting clogged pores and removing debris. This

cleanser is also ideal for people who wear waterproof makeup as it will

remove it without drying your skin.

It is ideal for all skin types.

Clay cleansers

These are known to purify the skin by drawing out toxins and excess sebum

from your pores. They have great absorbing power and are ideal for people

with oily and combination skin.

Micellar cleansers

These originated in France and are made from ‘micelles'- tiny oil molecules

that suspend in soft water. It attracts dirt, makeup, and excess oil. They are

preferred by many because they don't require to be rinsed off with water.

It is ideal for people with dry and sensitive skin.

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Cleansing balms

Cleansing balms are wax-like and melt upon lathering into an oil-like

consistency. They are used alongside other cleansers. These are ideal for

people with dry and sensitive skin.

Cleansing cloths, sponges, and mitts

These are different from cleansing wipes. They are made with special fibers

and are sourced from plants. They remove impurities and also sloughs off

dead cells from skin pores. With cleansing cloths, sponges, and mitts, you

don’t have to use any other cleanser as they can do the cleansing work on

their own.

They are ideal for people with oily and combination skin.

Those are the main types of cleansers you can find on the market today.

When it comes to the art of face cleansing, you need to select an ideal cleanser

for your skin type carefully. That said, no matter your skin care regimen, a quality

face cleanser is a must. Therefore, know your ideal cleanser and use it twice a

day.

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Do I really need to use a moisturizer? This is a common question many people

ask all the time. The answer to this question is yes. Even if your body produces its

own lubricants through glands that secrete sebum or oil, most people need extra

hydration. This is because external conditions such as sun rays, weather, and

harsh chemicals from skin care products as well as infections can be too much for

your skin to handle.

However, there is one thing you need to know; moisturizers, despite them

indicating they moisturize your skin, do not add moisture.

Instead, here is what they do to your skin;

1. They help slow down the aging process

When used in the morning and at night, moisturizers will help you achieve a

younger-looking, toned, and healthier skin. Of course, you should not leave out

your face cleanser, toner, and other facial cleaning routines, but having a

moisturizer is what makes all the other things effective. Moisturizer is the glue

that holds all your skin care products together.

When your skin’s barrier function fails to work as required, your body becomes

susceptible to all sorts of free radicals, bacteria, and pollutants to attack your skin.

Keep Your Skin

Moisturized




This lead to an increase in dead skin cells and loss of hydration which makes your

skin appear old. If this persists, you will start developing wrinkles, fine lines,

sagging skin, and hyperpigmentation.

A closer look at your moisturizer will reveal that most of the ingredients listed on

the package are similar to those found in most anti-aging creams, night creams,

eye creams, and firming creams. In other words, moisturizers are known to

increase skin hydration and tone the skin to reduce the appearance of wrinkles

and fine lines.

2. They help to keep your skin hydrated

Moisturizers help to strengthen your body’s main protective barrier against

external damage, which is the skin. The main function of the skin is to prevent

harmful elements from finding their way into your body and expelling toxins.

However, without hydration, your skin loses its strength and ability to perform its

tasks. Water makes up every cell in our bodies, including skin cells. Therefore, for

your skin to function optimally and withstand harsh environmental agents, it

needs to stay hydrated.

Moisturizers, therefore, help to keep your skin stay hydrated by maintaining

adequate water levels in its superficial layers so it can retain its strength.

They prevent inflammation and make skin less susceptible to break out

There is a myth that oily, sensitive skin doesn’t need to be moisturized. But this is

wrong. When the skin is dehydrated, it becomes more susceptible to breakouts

and allergens and also becomes easily irritated.




Failure to use enough moisturizer will make your skin become sensitive and

crack. This will expose it to external agents. When your body notices the threat

caused by these agents, it releases histamine, which will lead to an acne breakout

or allergic reaction.

3. Have active ingredients that address several skin condition

Some moisturizers contain active ingredients with antioxidants and anti-

inflammatory qualities which makes them more beneficial to your skin. Although

moisturizers are designed to work with any skin type and keep it lubricated and

balanced, some have active ingredients that repair, soothe, and rejuvenate your

skin. Therefore, it is important to know your skin type to know the right

moisturizer to use so that you can get the most out of your product.

Some of the active ingredients you will find in most moisturizers include;

Ÿ Glycerin or glycerol. This ingredient attracts and retains water thereby

keeping your skin smooth and hydrated. It attracts water both from the

lower layers of the skin and the environment. This help prevents flaking

and dryness.

Ÿ Dimethicone. This is meant to fill in uneven fine lines and texture to

create a smooth, flawless look

Ÿ Hyaluronic acid. This plumps and softens the skin. It hydrates your skin

by drawing and trapping water in the outer layers of the skin.

Ÿ Petrolatum. This occlusive ingredient help prevents water loss. For

people with dry skin, look for a moisturizer with petrolatum as one of the

ingredients. People with normal and oily skin may need to skip products

with this ingredient.




Ÿ Ceramides. They enable your skin to maintain its natural moisture barrier.

Low levels of ceramides make your skin dry and scaly and more

susceptible to external irritants. Therefore, for people with dry skin, look

for a moisturizer with this ingredient.

4. It improves your skin complexion

Dry skin doesn’t look attractive; the white, flaky patches with rough lines makes

your skin look scaly and dull. However, once you apply moisturizer, your skin

appearance will improve almost immediately. This is because some moisturizers

contain emollients and humectants that are designed to trap moisture on the

superficial layers of the skin.

This makes your skin appear smooth and feel soft. These two qualities help

improve the appearance of dry skin.

Quality moisturizers can help repair dry, itchy skin and provide a soothing effect.

Although most are designed to work with any skin type, it is important that you

go for one with active ingredients that suits your skin for maximum benefits.




We have mentioned before that one of the factors that cause damage to your

skin is the UV rays from the sun. The sun plays a major role in making your skin

age fast, and the surprising thing is that the damage doesn’t always occur when

you bask outside; it also occurs when you are going on with your day-to-day

activities. That’s why you should wear sunscreens all the time.

Talking about sunscreens, there are still many misconceptions about sunscreens

and how to use it correctly;

Here are 4 common sunscreen misconceptions;

4Any sunscreen will work on me

Every sunscreen has a sun protection factor (SPF) shown on its packaging which

indicates how well the product will protect your skin against UVB rays. However,

there are UVA rays, which you are also exposed to and are responsible for skin

aging.

To make sure you are protected from cancerous rays (UVB) as well as aging-linked

rays (UVB), make sure you to buy sunscreens labeled ‘broad spectrum’ and

providing an SPF of more than 30.

Sun Protection

Is Key




4Higher SPF means more longevity

This is a misconception many people regard true. However, no matter how high

the SPF is, you should apply sunscreen twice every two hours.Therefore, carry

your sunscreen with you to the beach so you can stay protected, irrespective of

the SPF it offers.

4As long as one doesn’t go outside, they are safe

This is another great misconception. The UVA rays can penetrate glass and thus

for people who spend most of their times in the car, these rays will still get to

them. Therefore, make sure to apply broach-spectrum sunscreens on a daily

basis.

4People with darker complexions do not need sunscreen

While people with darker skin tones have a naturally higher SPF, they are not

entirely safe from aging and skin cancer. Therefore, make sunscreen application a

habit.

With that in mind, let’s now look

discuss how to get the best out




Tips for Using Sunscreens

1. Apply before you dress up

Coating yourself when you have already dressed up will make you miss some

spots. Therefore, before going outside, slather enough broad-spectrum

sunscreens that offer at least SPF 30 on your body.

2. Don’t wait until you go outside

Another reason you should apply sunscreen before you get dressed up is that it

needs around 20 minutes to sink in. If you apply it on your skin when you are

outside, you will be wearing no sunscreen for the first 20 minutes you are

outdoors.

3. Go for a sunscreen that provides other benefits

When you are buying a sunscreen formula, you might want to choose one that

can help with other skin conditions. If your skin is sensitive, choose one with anti-

inflammatory ingredients. If you have brown spots, pick one with lightening

agents such as soy or niacinamide.

4. Never rely on makeup

Sometimes you might be tempted to think that makeup will protect you from

UVA and UVB rays, but for it to protect your skin, you will need to apply a lot of

it. Therefore, unless you want your skin to have a whole layer of makeup, don’t

skip using sunscreen in your morning routines.




5. Don’t forget the scalp

People often forget applying sunscreens to their scalp and hairline and end up

with sunburns up there. So, use a spray sunscreen to apply it on your hairline and

scalp.


The Ideal Sunscreen for YouHere are a few guidelines to help you find the right formula for your skin type;

For people with normal skin, you can use almost all sunscreen formulas- from

powder to cream to gel. Consider what is comfortable with your skin and what

is easiest to apply.

People with sensitive and dry skin should choose a cream or lotion with added

moisturizing or hydrating ingredients. Such as lanolin, glycerin, aloe, and oils.

Also, mineral formulas or those with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are gentler

on sensitive skin than chemical formulas. Steer away from sunscreens with

preservatives, fragrances, or alcohol.

For people with combination or oily skin, go for lightweight sunscreens that

come in gel or fluid formulas. It should read ‘non-comedogenic’ or ‘oil-free’

on their packaging.

Irrespective of whether it is hot or cold outside, it is important to wear

sunscreen to protect your skin from UV rays of the sun. Make sunscreen an all-

year necessity and ensure you wear the right sunscreen.

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It goes without saying that antioxidants play a potent role in protecting your skin

against sun damage. But why is it so crucial to have antioxidants as part of your

skin care routine? How do they protect your skin? And more importantly, what

are they?

You cannot discuss antioxidants without mentioning free radicals. Free radicals

are highly reactive, unstable molecules with unpaired electrons. To have

constancy, these radicals attack stable molecules in your body, thereby triggering

a reaction that destroys healthy cells.

Sometimes our bodies naturally create free radicals to counterbalance bacteria

and viruses. However, we can also get free radicals from environmental factors

such as pollution, sun, cigarette smoke, radiation, and other toxic chemicals.

Our bodies have enough antioxidants to neutralize free radicals, but when there

are in large numbers, an imbalance occurs known as oxidative stress.

Oxidative stress hinders the skin natural repair process, breaks down collagen,

and triggers inflammation. After the chain reaction caused by these elements, you

start seeing wrinkles, fine lines, acne breakouts, and loose skin. Antioxidants

scavenge free radicals and help prevent the occurrence of these visible signs to

make your skin glow. This is why you need to supplement with antioxidants.

Make Antioxidants Your Best Friend




Let’s Discuss the Benefits of Supplementing

With Antioxidants

> Helps prevent sunburns

Antioxidants have anti-inflammatory properties. They slow down your skin’s

inflammatory response to the harsh sun rays thereby preventing sunburn and

offering enhanced protection against sun rays.

> It improves your skin appearance

By reducing inflammation, antioxidants gives your skin time to repair itself.

Besides, some antioxidants such as vitamin C also boost the production of

collagen which makes your skin look youthful.

> Prevent skin pigmentation

Antioxidants can brighten your skin tone by reducing the damage caused by

harmful rays from the sun. Frequent exposure to harsh sunlight as well as free

radicals can trigger changes in our skin’s appearance thereby causing uneven skin

tone and dark spots. However, antioxidants fight to neutralize the free radicals to

prevent this from occurring.

Antioxidants are designed to protect cells from pollution, UV light, and other

toxins that produce free radicals.




Here Are 5 Potent Antioxidants You Can Use

Vitamin C

This is one of the best antioxidants you can use. Other than scavenging free

radicals, vitamin C offer other skin benefits such as fading dark spots and

boosting collagen production. However, it is important to note that this vitamin

can lose its effectiveness when exposed to air or light. Therefore, store it in a cool,

dark place

Retinol

Retinol is one of the proven anti-aging ingredients that helps rewind time on

aging skin. A derivative of vitamin A, retinol is effective thanks to its small

molecular structure. This enables it to penetrate deep into the skin structure to

stimulate the production of collagen and accelerate repair and renewal of skin

cells. It also helps to smoothen wrinkles and fine lines and also improves skin

tone.

Whether you go for the prescription kind or over-the-counter retinol, this

ingredient is a powerful antioxidant that will help your skin fight environmental

element that speeds skin aging. This antioxidant also exfoliates the skin to

minimize pore size and refine skin texture.

Idebenone

This is a common ingredient used in products meant to improve conditions of

people suffering from Alzheimer’s condition. It is a synthetic ingredient that acts

as a powerful antioxidant. This ingredient can protect a wide variety of body cells




Vitamin E

This is an important vitamin needed by the body to help vital organs, including

skin to function optimally. In addition to being a powerful antioxidant, vitamin E

is also renowned for its ability to speed up the skin’s healing process. This makes

it a common ingredient in many moisturizers, lotions, and creams that are

formulated to treat dry skin. It is also often found in products made to reduce

stretch marks.

Resveratrol

This is a chemical compound often found in the skins of fruits such as berries and

grapes, tea, red wine, and peanuts. In plants, it serves as defensive armor. It is an

antimicrobial ingredient produced by plants to protect them from infection,

extreme climate changes, intense UV radiation, and air pollution.

In the body, this antioxidant enables mitochondria to function optimally.

Mitochondria are the cell's powerhouses, and thus this substance indirectly

promotes longer life of cells in body organs, including skin.

Your skin is your largest body organ, and therefore it is important to protect it.

Antioxidants help protect your skin by neutralizing free radicals which are known

to damage skin cells. Antioxidants can do a lot in improving the appearance of

your skin, including slowing down the aging process.




The old adages “you are what you eat” and “beauty starts from within” are literary

true, and there is a meaning behind them, which is healthy eating leads to a

healthy body and vice versa. You eat a lot of junk, and your body will probably

look baggy. What you eat manifests itself on the outside, right to your skin.

That’s why eating healthy should be part of your skincare routine. You need to eat

foods packed with vitamins and natural ingredients. What we eat has a direct

impact on our skin.

Therefore, if you want a skin with fresh, glowing complexion, here are 9

superfoods you need to eat often;

Ÿ Avocados

Avocados have all along been famously known to promote healthy skin.

They are high in monounsaturated fatty acids that keep the skin looking

moisturized and firm. This fruit also helps to reduce irritation and redness as well

as regenerate damaged skin cells.

The omega 9’s, one of the ingredients in avocados, keep the epidural layer of the

skin moisturized, which enables you to have a healthy-looking and hydrated skin.

Avocados are also packed with antioxidant carotenoids that fight free radicals.

Eat Healthy For a

Glowing Skin




Ÿ Dark green leafy vegetables

Dark leafy greens take the center stage when it comes to promoting

skin health. Loaded with essential vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants,

dark green leafy veggies such as Swiss chard, spinach, mustard leaves, radish

leaves, coriander, lettuce, arugula, broccoli, and parsley help to enhance skin

appearance and reduce dullness. Add them to your sandwiches, salads, soups,

etc.

Ÿ Water

Drinking plenty of water throughout the day will keep your body well-

hydrated, which in turn, reflects on your skin. Water flushes out harmful toxins

from your body and also keeps wrinkles at bay by keeping your skin firm.

Whenever you crave for your favorite soft drink, sip some water instead.

Ÿ Salmon

Oily fish, and salmon, in particular, is rich in omega 3's, which is a good

fat for the skin. These polyunsaturated fatty acids help repair damaged skin and

protect it from harmful sun rays. They also help keep cell membranes hydrated

and healthy thereby making your skin look soft and supple.




Ÿ Lemon

This is an incredible fruit for the skin, not only because it is rich in vitamin

C but also because it helps balance our bodies' pH. Vitamin C helps make

collagen, which binds skin cells together, and also neutralize free radicals thereby

slowing down the process of aging.

Although it tastes acidic, when metabolized, the minerals in this fruit help balance

our bodies’ pH by alkalizing the blood. Most of the times, our bodies are too

acidic due to overconsumption of things like alcohol, coffee, and processed

foods. When our bodies’ pH is unbalanced, our skin becomes irritation-prone and

super sensitive. Therefore, maintaining a good pH balance is key, and this fruit will

help you do that.

Ÿ Turmeric

Turmeric is great for the skin due to its anti-inflammatory properties.

Inflammation causes your skin to be rough thereby leading to aging and

formation of wrinkles in the long run. It also makes your skin look tired and puffy

in the short term.

By drinking fresh or dried turmeric helps fight inflammation thereby keeping your

skin looking younger and fresher. It also helps prevent the occurrence of serious

skin conditions such as rosacea and eczema.




Ÿ Bone broth

This is great for the skin as it enables it to become elastic, thanks to the

abundance of minerals such as magnesium and calcium in it. When bones are

simmered for several hours, the collagen inside cooks into gelatin, which when

consumed, keeps the skin smooth, elastic, and firm. Gelatin also helps soothe the

digestive tract which helps reduce inflammation.

Ÿ Blueberries

As we discussed earlier, antioxidants help to neutralize and fight free

radicals, which are known to damage collagen and skin cells thereby causing dry

skin, wrinkles, and other aging skin factors. They also help maintain healthy skin.

Eating blueberries is one of the best ways to get antioxidants. These fruits are also

full of vitamin A, which normalizes oil levels in the skin. The fruit is also helpful for

people with acne-prone skin.

More tips on eating healthy for glowing skin;

Ÿ You don’t have to stick to a strict diet; you need to consume healthy foods

often that have nutrients known to repair and rejuvenate the skin

Ÿ Make drinking water on an empty stomach a habit

Ÿ Always have a healthy breakfast

Ÿ Eat healthy snacks such as yoghurt, fruit juice, coconut water, or buttermilk

Ÿ Avoid foods that are allergic to you

Ÿ Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol and cigarettes

Treat your skin by optimizing your nutrition. Eating antioxidant-rich vegetables

and fruits, healthy fats from salmon and nuts, and plenty of water, in conjunction

with a balanced diet will make your skin glow.




Despite us having different skin needs and types, we all have one thing in

common- we all want a youthful-looking and baby-soft skin. However, have you

ever asked yourself why a baby’s skin is supple and soft? Well, it is because baby’s

skin cells are replaced every few days. However, as they grow older, the rate of

cell turnover begins to slow down, and dead cells start hanging around for a

much longer time. This tends to create fine lines and make your complexion start

looking dull.

The good news is that you can make up for this by improving the texture and

tone through exfoliation.

Here are some immediate benefits of regular exfoliation;

Ÿ It unclogs pores thereby allowing for the release of skin oils

Ÿ It removes dead skin cells trapped in pores thereby fading age spots

Ÿ It makes wrinkles and fine lines look less visible

Ÿ It minimizes the appearance of superficial scars and enlarged pores

Ÿ It allows for better absorption of antioxidants and moisturizers by removing

damaged and dead cells. This holds true for skin treatments and acne

medications for which penetration is needed.

Have an Exfoliation

Routine




When exfoliating, it is important not to overdo it; be gentle and go slow. Over-

exfoliation is a common mistake most people make, especially when they are

starting out a new skin routine. Make use of a moisturizer to keep your skin

hydrated after you exfoliate.

So, What Exfoliant Is Right for You?

There are two types of exfoliants namely; physical exfoliants and chemical

exfoliants. Physical exfoliants make use of friction to remove dead skin cell. An

example is the use of face scrub. On the other hand, chemical exfoliation is the

use of enzymes and acids to remove dead skin cells.

Let’s look further into this;

Ÿ Physical exfoliants

This involves using a product with granules such as facial scrubs. They work on

your skin to remove dead skin cells. If you choose to use this type of exfoliation,

the best product to use will depend on your skin sensitivity and thickness.

Some of the options you have when it comes to physical exfoliants include;

- Larger granules. This suit people with oilier complexions as they have larger

sebaceous glands that make their skin able to tolerate larger and more abrasive

particles.

- Smaller granules. This suits people with sensitive, drier skin. Small granules

exfoliants such as those made from jojoba beads are less likely to cut or irritate

your skin.

- Crushed nutshells and seeds. For people with sensitive skin, avoid these

exfoliants as they have irregular shapes and uneven edges that can tear the skin.




Ÿ Chemical exfoliants

They work by weakening dead cells and encourage easier exfoliation. Typically,

they are best suited for people who are acne-prone and those with sensitive skin.

Some of the common chemical exfoliants include;

- Acids. The most common is hydroxyl acids which fit into two categories

AHAs (Alpha Hydroxy Acids), and BHA (Beta Hydroxy Acid). Both of these

work in a similar way but produces slightly varied results. AHAs dissolves in

water while BHA dissolves in oil. This makes BHA more effective on people

with oily skin.

- Enzymes. This suits people with sensitive skin.

- Peels. These are considered chemical exfoliants because they use enzymes

or acids to exfoliate the skin.

With that in mind, let’s discuss the best way to

5 Tips to Best Exfoliate Your Skin

Start slow

You need to get your skin used to exfoliation. Therefore, start by applying it once

a week if you are doing physical exfoliation or start off with a lower concentration

if you are using chemical exfoliation.

Gradually work your way up so that your skin can get used to this. Ideally, you

should exfoliate two or three times a week to see optimal results.




Know your skin tolerance levels

You need to know your skin comfort level before proceeding to exfoliate several

times a week. AHAs exfoliants are a better choice for people with dry skin

because they help improve moisture and exfoliate on the surface of the skin.

BHAs are ideal for people with oily, acne-prone skin thanks to their ability to

penetrate skin pores.

Start by patch testing

Start by applying your product on a small area of your skin to see how it will

respond.

Use sunscreen

Some exfoliants, especially chemical exfoliants, can leave your skin sensitive to

harsh sun rays. Therefore, while it is important to apply sunscreen every day, it is

even more crucial to apply it when exfoliating.

Don’t be tempted to over-exfoliate

If you notice your skin reddening or feeling sensitive than usual after exfoliating,

then it is possible you are out doing it. If this happens, opt for a lower

concentration if you are using chemical exfoliants or give your skin a couple of

days to recover.

Finally, consult your doctor if you have a skin condition or pregnant before

starting an exfoliation routine. While daily moisturizing and cleansing are needed

to maintain healthy skin, the secret to glowing skin is through exfoliation.

Exfoliation helps your skin rejuvenate and restores its elasticity while removing

dead skin cells to make it glow.




Regular facial cleansing, exfoliation, moisturizing, and using sunscreens make up

the basics of healthier, glowing skin. For some, this is all it takes to have a glowing

skin. However, for others who have more serious skin concerns, additional skin

care treatments is inevitable. And this is where the use of oils, serums, and masks

come into play.

Quality oils, masks, and serums are rich in concentrated nutrients and vitamins

that brightens and repairs worn out skin, as well as offering additional hydration.

Let’s explore what each does.

1. Skin Oils

Thanks to natural-beauty experts, it is now less scary for people with oily skin to

slather oil on the face. Not only does oil moisturize dry skin, but also provide

essential vitamins, fatty acids, and antioxidants to any skin. Oils can also create a

great protective barrier against harsh environmental elements thanks to their

natural antimicrobial properties.

In addition to this, some help to fight wrinkles and improve texture.

Use Skin Oils, Serums,

and Masks




Here are some tips of using skin oils;

Ÿ For cleansing, use castor, jojoba, and olive oil. These oils are great for

any type of skin and are great cleansing agents. They also help to remove

makeup, excess sebum, and dirt.

Ÿ For reversing signs of scars and aging, use rose hip seed oil. It is

packed with vitamin E, vitamin A, and essential fatty acid. This oil helps

address different issues ranging from sun spots and age spots to acne

spots and stretch marks.

Ÿ For soothing rosacea and acne flare-ups, use chamomile, calendula,

and tea tree oils. They have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory

properties.

Ÿ For moisturizing dry skin, use coconut oils. It helps with cracked heels

and elbows, dry cuticles, and parched hands. Make sure you go for virgin

coconut oil.

2. Serums

Serums are potent enhancements in skin care regimens thanks to their versatility.

They can be added to night creams, masks, and moisturizers to enhance their

potency. Serums can also be used as a hydrating cream for oily skin.

Here are tips for using serum;

Ÿ For sagging skin, use anti-aging serums. They feature active

ingredients that speed up the rate of cell turnover and also improve skin's

elasticity. This serum makes pores and fine lines less visible.

Ÿ For hyperpigmentation, use brightening serums. These work by

inhibiting melanin production in some parts or by improving skin texture

and toe and accelerating cell renewal.




Ÿ For overly dry skin, use hydrating serums. They help restore ideal

moisture level on your skin and also repair your skin to prevent loss of

moisture.

Ÿ For inflamed skin, use calming serums as they are designed to reduce

itchiness and burning sensations as well as redness.

3, Masks

These seal in moisture and soothe dry skin by infusing vital nutrients to it. They

should be applied once or twice a week. To help you choose the right one, here

are a few tips;

Ÿ For detoxifying skin, use clay masks. These masks are known for their

potency to remove excess oil and soak up dirt to prevent the formation of

blackheads.

Ÿ For improving skin texture, use cream masks. These masks are rich in

moisturizers and botanical oils, and thus are ideal for people with very dry

skins.

Ÿ For soothing sun-damaged or inflamed skin, get gel masks. They offer

soothing, cooling relief thanks to the Aloe Vera, collagen, and

antioxidants infused in them.

Ÿ For general skin treatment, use sheet masks.

These three skin treatment products are important for people with greater skin

issues.




Ever seen women in their late 40’s and 50’s having flawless skin and

wondered what their secret is? Well, good genes and skin care routine

go a long way in ensuring this happens. Also, frequent visits to facial

experts and getting spa treatment can be contributing factors as well.

The good news is that you can have some of the cutting-edge machines

used by facial experts and spa masseuse at home. If you don’t have

enough time to have regular massages and treatment from a spa, you

can have beauty devices at home. If you think you would like to use skin

devices regularly, why not give it a try?

The good thing with at-home skin care devices is that they work in a

similar manner as those used for commercial purposes in spas. And the

best thing is that they have lesser power and thus will be safer for you.

If you would like to use a skin care device regularly, here are several skin

care

Use Skin Care Devices




• Deep cleaning devices

These are basically cleaning brushes. They have heads that vibrate or rotate at

extremely high speeds. When used correctly, cleaning brushes can remove excess

oil and dirt from skin pores while sloughing off dead cells.

• Anti-aging devices

The recommended anti-aging devices for consumers at the moment utilize light

or laser energy. If you are bothered by wrinkles, laugh lines or loss of elasticity, at-

home laser devices can be suitable for you. Some use laser energy to warm the

skin which stimulates collagen production. This leads to a reduction of wrinkles

and fine lines appearance which enables you to get a more youthful skin.

LED therapy devices help in wound healing and have been shown to enhance skin

elasticity and reduce inflammation.

Micro-current treatment devices use low electrical currents to stimulate your

facial muscles. This causes them to contract and triggers production of ATP. ATP

or Adenosine triphosphate is the energy that drives all biochemical functions in

the body including synthesis of collagen and elastin.

• Glow-enhancing devices

For people who want to brighten their complexion, glow-enhancing devices

might work for you. These devices are known as microdermabrasion machines.

They are gaining momentum lately and are used in cosmetic exfoliating

treatment. They offer instant glow and smoothness to the skin.

Besides, these devices help to improve delivery of topically applied skin care

products, which means better results.




Remember, your skin is unique, and every person's skin will respond

differently to different skin care devices. Just like with any other

skincare product, devices will work flawlessly for some and not so well

for others. Understanding your skin needs and knowing the right

device to meet the needs will help you make informed decisions.

In everything, remember to have realistic expectations. Just like skin

care products, skin care devices will not perform magic but can help

your skin look great. If you are confused about the best way to care

for your skin, always consult a facial expert or spa masseuse; they will

provide the right answers for any questions you may have regarding

your skin.




A solid daily skin care regimen is essential for maintaining healthy,

youthful-looking skin. However, every once in a while, you need to go

to a professional to get a facial treatment at a spa. More precisely, you

need facial treatment every 6 weeks or once a month.

A facial is multi-purpose skin treatment that includes steaming,

exfoliation, face masking, a face massage, facial cleansing, and

application of high-end creams and lotions to your skin. There are many

types of facials, and choosing one that you need depends on the skin

issues you have and your skin type. Some are firming and restoring,

while others are highly moisturizing. Some focus on problem areas

while others on certain skin conditions.

No matter the type of facial, here are the 7 benefits they have for skin;

1. Deep cleansing

Facials involve a deeper cleanse than you do at home or office. It will

help to remove toxins, buildup, dirt, and excess oil from your skin pores.

Facial treatment will thoroughly remove all the bacteria that could have

potentially caused skin conditions in the future.

Have a Facial

Treatment Routine




A good exfoliation such as microdermabrasion will unclog

your skin pores and remove dead skin from your superficial

skin layers. This will allow optimal absorption of all nutrients

and minerals in skin care products. The procedure will also

make your skin feel softer and look smoother, thereby

making you look better.

People with whiteheads, blackheads, and frequent flare-ups

of skin as well as persistent pimples, will benefit from deep

cleansing as well. This is a must-do procedure for people

struggling with acne as it purifies the skin.

2. Relaxation

Massages offer good relaxation and also relieves stress. Just

like the rest of your body, your face muscles need a

massage, and most spa treatments include one. Facials

boost circulation and detoxify your skin while making it

look youthful and healthy.

3. Anti-aging facial

Facial treatments can help to reduce the appearance of

aging signs such as wrinkles. Applying an anti-aging cream

on your skin will not only increase oxygen flow and blood

circulation to your skin but also promote collagen

production. This will enhance your skin elasticity thus

making wrinkles and fine lines fade out. Remember, it is

never too early to get facials; you don’t have to wait for fine

lines and wrinkles to form to get facial treatment.




4. Treats a variety of skin conditions

If you are diagnosed with a skin issue, getting regular facials will help offer relief and

heal your skin. Skin conditions such as pimples, whiteheads, acne, sunspots,

inflammation, as well as serious conditions such as rosacea can be minimized or

completely treated with a facial treatment. Your facial expert or spa masseuse will

recommend the right facial treatment depending on your skin condition.

5. Right advice

A good spa masseuse or facial aesthetician will analyze your skin type and condition

and help you choose the best facial treatment for you. They can also recommend to

you the best products for your skin. This is because they are experienced and

knowledgeable. If you listen to them, you can help prevent the occurrence of future

skin conditions and improve your skin health.

6. Skin rejuvenation

The extraction, massage, exfoliation, mask application, and steaming done during

facials will lead to skin rejuvenation. This means you will have fresh, youthful skin.

Facial treatment improves your skin appearance, thereby giving you a healthy,

glowing skin with balanced complexion. The results might not be instant, but in the

long-run, your skin health will be restored. Therefore, keep in mind that having

regular facials is key to getting a radiant glow.

7. Treating yourself

Lastly, treating yourself with a relaxing massage at a spa will not only make you feel

beautiful but also boost your mood. A massage in a peaceful environment will clear

your mind and uplift your spirit. Therefore, once in a month, dedicate some time for

yourself, and treat that skin; it will thank you with a radiant glow.




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10 Simple Tips For Healthier Skin - Le Nu Spa › wp-content › uploads › 2019 › 07 › 10-simp… · Regular skin care routine will go a long way in helping one maintain a healthier,